“We hope that people will go into their own neighborhoods and tell us what’s special about that neighborhood -- you know, the people, the places -- and really talk about what St. Louis is today,” Lahs-Gonzales said.

Reframing and Restraint

If you must feature an iconic structure or other familiar sight in your photo, the trick is to find a unique perspective.

“It’s just about thinking about a detail, perhaps, or some aspect of it that really we haven’t seen before,” Lahs-Gonzales said. “So really, just think about how you can show your city to someone in a very unique and new way.”

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Credit Rob Monroe

Photoshopping your images is fine but restraint is key. Make sure your manipulation serves a purpose.

“If there’s a reason for it, if there’s a way that it actually enhances your message, what you’re trying to say then, yes, I think that would be fine,” Lahs-Gonzales said.

Photos taken anytime in 2013 and up until the contest deadline of Feb. 23 will be accepted. Organizers are hoping for participation from people in St. Louis City and St. Louis County.

There are separate categories for professionals, amateurs and youth up to age 18 . The grand prize is $1,000 dollars, with other prizes ranging from $500 down to $25. One hundred winning photos will be displayed this summer at The Sheldon.